Talo Tshechu

DAY 1: PARO/THIMPHU

As you approach the Paro International Airport (2200 meters above sea level), you will have a spectacular—a real treat of beautiful land to your eyes—valley. When you walk out of the plane, you will be greeted by an unusually fresh and clean breeze before your guides come with a silken scarf to receive you.
From there, you will be transferred to Thimphu, the capital city of Bhutan.
In Thimphu (2300m), if time permits, take an orientation walk in town, do shopping and get settled.

Accommodations: Hotel Tara Phendeyling (or similar)

DAY 2: THIMPHU/PUNĀKHA

Today, we will leave Thimphu for Punakha. We will first stop at Docula Pass (3150m) and visit Druk Wangyel Chortens. Here, there are 108 stupas and it was built under the command of Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck, to celebrate the victory over Indian Militants in 2003.
Then, we will descend down and stop as Chhimi Lhakhang. The temple here is known as the temple of fertility because it is strongly believed that all of the childless couples who seek the blessings will be granted their wishes.
This afternoon, we will visit the majestic Punakha Dzong (1200m). This fortress served as the capital of Bhutan for year in the past. If time permits, we will visit Sangchhen Dorji Lhuendrup Nunnery.

Accommodations: Zhingkham Resort (or similar)

DAY 3: TALO TSECHU 

Visit Talo Monastery to witness the festival. This tshechu, like other tshechus, is a three-day event that happens at Talo Monastery. This festival is also conducted on the 10^th day of Bhutanese calendar month.

This festival is well known for its mask dances the atsara (divine clown) dances. An equally popular attraction, which has a deep religious and historical significance, it the Zhungdra (classical dance) by the Talo dance troup. The three songs of Mani Sum, which comprise the Zhungdra set, are performed as the closing item on each day of the three days of the Tshechu. The three songs, Samyi Sala (performed on the first day), Drukpa Dungey (second day) and Thowachu Gangi Tselay (final day), are the pride of Talo community.
Afternoon, we will hike through rice terraces and forests to Khamsum Yueley Chorten. If time permits, we will ramble through the suspension bridge in the evening.

Accommodation: Zhingkham Resort (or similar)

DAY 4: PUNAKHA/PARO

Right after early breakfast, we will travel towards Paro. It is almost four hours journey.
On our way, if time permits, we will stop at Semtokha to visit the oldest dzong in the country which was built in 1629 by the father of Bhutan, Zhabdrung Ngawang Namgyel.
Then, after lunch at Paro, we will go to Paro Dzong. This dzong is believed to have built on the heap of jewels, the name Paro Rinpung Dzong is derived from this. Today, it is the seat of the district administration. The first structure was built in 15^th century and the mostf of the present structure was built in 17^th century.
Then, we will visit the National Museum which was once a watch tower. After that, we will visit one of the oldest temples built in 8^th century, Kyichu Lhakhang.

Accommodations: Bhutan Mandala Resort (or similar)

DAY 5: TAKSANG HIKE 

Travel to Bhutan and if you go back without hiking to Tiger’s Nest Monastery, famously known as Taktsang Monastery (2900M), you have not completed your Bhutan trip. Thus, today, we will hike to the monastery. It will take at least 2 hours to reach the monastery.
The monastery was built by Guru Padmasambava in 8^th century. The legend has it that he came riding on the furious tigress and subdued a demon that devoured human living in the valley.
After the hike, we will visit a home-stay and enjoy cultural program with dinner in pure Bhutanese style in the evening.

Accommodations: Bhutan Mandala Resort (or similar)

DAY 6: Departure

In Bhutan, there is a saying that a journey that begins must end. Thus, your journey to Bhutan comes to an end today. We will see you off at Paro International Airport.

• Bhutan Royalties, tourists fees, Visa fees and taxes.
• Accommodations in listed or similar hotels (pleasant hotels 3-4 star type) during the tour and in tents during the trek.
• All meals, including evening tea/coffee etc through-out the trip.
• All land transfers, sightseeing with entrance fees.
• Experienced Culture Tour Guide.
• Bottled water in the vehicle and other camp serivce.

NOT INCLUDED

• Flights in and out of Bhutan.
• Travel insurance, Drink, Visa fees, Laundry